Every year, the 4th of July is the busiest time for animal shelters because dogs and cats are terrified of fireworks, and get lost trying to escape the loud sounds.

This was one of those dogs — but fortunately, he was rescued by Hope for Paws. He was exhausted and frightened when rescuers arrived on the scene, but trust slowly built and they were able to take him in, scan his microchip and reunite him with his worried family.

When the dog finally sees his family again, he is simply overjoyed.

This story has a happy ending, but many similar stories do not. Please always leave your animals inside during fireworks. Otherwise, you may lose them forever.